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HE has helped public places in their bid to improve hygiene and now his company has been nationally recognised.

Matt Roberts invented the Hygiene Handle in 2009 and since then it has developed into the company Pure Hold.

At the Decision magazineawards in Leatherhead he was given the Mover & Shaker Business Achievement award for companies that have made a significant impact internationally on their market sector.

Managing director Mr Roberts said: ‘We are delighted to be recognised with this award. It has come during an exciting time for Pure Hold as we introduce new products and we are proud to be acknowledged as making a significant impact on an important market.’

No company was able to put itself forward or be nominated.

Instead, more than 5,000 companies in the south of England were researched and independently assessed against a set of measures.

Director of UBS and co-presenter of the award Martyn Begbour said: ‘The criteria included being a “game changer” in terms of developing new techniques and standards.’

The company, which is based in Catherington Business Park, only began trading in 2013 after trials of the Hygiene Handle were successful.

The handle, which releases gel when used to open the door, has been installed in hospitals, colleges, washrooms and factories throughout the world.

An independent study found the handle to be 98.5 per cent cleaner than a standard door handle.

The award has come after the company announced a new product that requires no complex installation.

The Nanotouch is a self-cleaning device that can be peeled off and stuck on a surface to keep hands clean.

First published in July 1988, Decision magazine reflects the business lifestyle of directors responsible for companies with a turnover of £5m in the south of England.